Photography BA (Hons)

Here’s how the BA (Hons) Photography programme at London Metropolitan University truly comes to life — through hands-on learning, professional connections, and access to studio-level equipment. From day one, you’ll be developing real creative skills, working on live briefs, and building your professional identity as an emerging photographer.

From the very start, you’ll be immersed in industry-standard analogue darkrooms, colour darkrooms, high-end digital studios, and dedicated photographic production spaces. This means you won’t just be observing — you’ll be creating, experimenting, and refining your craft every step of the way.

You’ll explore both digital and analogue camera systems, experiment with moving-image and hybrid image practices, and be supported by experienced tutors who are active professionals in the field. The course structure mirrors how real creative projects unfold in industry — you’ll generate briefs, develop creative responses, and manage production workflows, ensuring you graduate ready to thrive in a professional environment.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience and real-world skills:

• Access to professional facilities: You’ll learn traditional printmaking in analogue black & white and colour darkrooms, and master modern techniques through high-end studio lighting and digital photography equipment.

• Industry-style project modules: You’ll take on projects that mirror professional practice — responding to briefs, researching ideas, producing final outcomes, and presenting your work publicly.

• Hands-on technical modules: In modules like Techniques: Photography, you’ll work across digital and analogue cameras, printing, archiving, and finishing workflows — building confidence with both process and equipment.

• Professional practice development: You’ll learn how to present yourself as a creative professional — building an online portfolio, producing printed publications, and showcasing your work through exhibitions and collaborations.

• Critical and contextual learning: You’ll connect your creative work to theory, history, and culture, helping you make images that not only look strong but also communicate meaning and context.

• Creative city experience: Based in London’s vibrant arts and media scene, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with local studios and creative professionals, gaining direct exposure to one of the world’s most dynamic photography networks.

• Personal and professional support: Regular feedback, one-to-one tutorials, and group critiques help you grow as both an independent creator and a valued member of a creative community.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BA (Hons) Photography at London Metropolitan University go on to build inspiring creative careers in the ever-evolving world of visual media. You’ll develop the technical mastery, artistic voice, and industry awareness to thrive as an image-maker, storyteller, or curator in today’s competitive creative industries.

Typical graduate roles include: photographer, photojournalist, picture editor, creative director, or gallery curator.

Here’s how London Met supports your professional journey:

• Dedicated employability support: The university’s Careers and Employability Service provides one-to-one career mentoring, portfolio reviews, and networking events to help you connect with employers and develop a professional practice.

• Industry partnerships: You’ll benefit from collaborations with leading creative organisations, including The Photographers’ Gallery, Getty Images, and London Design Festival, offering real-world exposure and opportunities for internships and exhibitions.

• Practical experience: Students regularly participate in live briefs, external exhibitions, and client-based projects, building strong professional portfolios before graduation.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Many alumni have successfully launched freelance photography businesses, exhibited internationally, or secured roles in media, advertising, and cultural sectors.

• Long-term value: The degree is recognised within the UK and internationally for its professional-standard facilities and teaching by practising photographers and industry experts.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can advance your studies with a master’s qualification such as MA Photography, MA Fine Art, or MA Visual Communication, deepening your creative research and preparing for higher-level professional or academic careers.